Been There – Gramado

Let’s review another mug from Brazil, this time it’s Been There Gramado. There are two more in the queue, stay tuned!

Gramado’s history begins in the mid-19th century when European immigrants, primarily from Germany and Italy, settled in the mountainous Serra Gaúcha region of Rio Grande do Sul. The city was officially founded in 1913, though its development accelerated in the 1940s when improved roads connected it to larger urban centers. What started as a small agricultural community transformed into one of Brazil’s most beloved tourist destinations, as visitors discovered its cool climate, stunning landscapes, and distinctive European-influenced architecture.… Read more

Been There – Salvador

Been There Salvador is a mug for the capital of the state of Bahia in northeastern Brazil. It is one of the oldest cities in the Americas and the birthplace of Afro-Brazilian culture. Founded in 1549 as the first capital of colonial Brazil, it became a major port in the Atlantic world. Its historic center, Pelourinho, is known for colourful buildings, lively squares, and deep cultural traditions shaped by African, Indigenous, and Portuguese influences that continue to define Salvador today.

– One of the figures on the mug represents a traditional drummer, highlighting Salvador’s strong musical heritage.… Read more

Been There Ornament – Hong Kong

Been There Ornament Hong Kong joins other mini mugs in my collection.

Hong Kong began as a small fishing and farming community before becoming a British colony in 1842 after the First Opium War. Over the next century, it transformed into a major trading port and one of the most important gateways between East and West. In 1997 sovereignty returned to China under the “one country, two systems” framework, which allowed Hong Kong to keep its own legal and economic structures.… Read more

Been There – Santiago de los Caballeros

Been There Santiago is the fourth mug from the Dominican Republic.

Santiago de los Caballeros, founded in 1495 during the earliest period of Spanish colonization, is one of the Dominican Republic’s most historically important cities. After being destroyed by the earthquake of 1562, the city relocated and rebuilt, continuing to grow through the 18th and 19th centuries thanks to its fertile land and strategic location in the Cibao Valley. Its agricultural wealth and cultural influence helped shape Santiago into the strong regional center it remains today.… Read more

Discovery Series Ornament – San Francisco

Discovery Series Ornament San Francisco captures the spirit of a city that grew from a small settlement into one of the most recognizable places on the West Coast. The Gold Rush, waves of immigration, and a long tradition of creativity and progress shape the city’s history. Even though San Francisco keeps changing, it still holds onto its classic sights and the upbeat energy that people love.

– One of the most charming symbols on the ornament is the seal, a fun nod to the famous sea lions that gather around the waterfront at places like Pier 39.… Read more

Been There – Bucaramanga

Been There Bucaramanga is a mug for a city that is often called the City of Parks. It grew from a small settlement in the Andean highlands into one of Colombia’s most active and sunny cities. It has always been shaped by its warm climate, its mountain surroundings, and a culture that mixes tradition with modern life. Today the city is known for its green spaces, friendly pace, and great regional pride.

Green parks fill other parts of the design, reminding us why Bucaramanga is known as the City of Parks.… Read more

Been There – Kuala Lumpur

Most of the landmarks and symbols that we’ve reviewed in the post about the ornament can also be found in the design of this Been There Kuala Lumpur mug. Let’s compare these two.

Kuala Lumpur has grown from a small tin mining settlement to Malaysia’s busy capital, a place where old buildings and modern towers sit side by side. Different cultures shaped the city, which is why you see Malay, Chinese, and Indian influences everywhere. The mug captures that mix really well, showing historic spots, modern icons, and the everyday life that makes KL such a lively place.… Read more

You Are Here – Torino

Thanks to a comment from one of our readers on the Turin mug post, we now know that Starbucks has released an updated version of the mug featuring the city’s Italian name. You can compare the two mugs side by side using the images below. It appears that You Are Here Torino includes no changes other than the updated title.

Torino has been an important city in northern Italy for centuries, starting as a Roman military camp and later becoming the capital of the Duchy of Savoy.… Read more

Discovery Series – San Diego

Discovery Series San Diego is a mug for a city that started as the first Spanish mission and settlement in California back in the 1700s. Over time, it grew into a relaxed coastal city shaped by the ocean, military history, and a steady flow of new residents. Today it is known for its beaches, mild weather, and a laid-back lifestyle that blends different cultures into one easy rhythm. It is a place where everyday life feels tied to the water and the outdoors.… Read more

Been There Ornament – Malacca

Been There Ornament Malacca is an ornament for a city also known as Melaka, that has a long and layered history that stretches back to the 1400s when it rose as a powerful Malay sultanate and one of Southeast Asia’s busiest trading ports. Its strategic position drew the attention of foreign powers, leading to centuries of Portuguese, Dutch, and British control. Each era left behind architecture, cuisine, and traditions that still shape the city today. Because of this mix, Malacca is now recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Malaysia’s most historically rich destinations.… Read more

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